Chippa United’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has expressed his excitement at the prospect of a potential AFCON semifinal match against Bafana Bafana, the South African national team.
Later today, Bafana Bafana will face Cape Verde in an AFCON quarterfinal, and the winner will play against the Super Eagles on Wednesday in Bouake for a chance to compete in the AFCON final.
“Both Cape Verde and South Africa are good teams, but I want to play against South Africa,” Nwabali said.
“I really wish to see how this my defence will fare against them.
“Yes, most of their players know me, and I also know them.”
Nwabali posted his fourth straight clean sheet for the first time by a Nigerian goalkeeper in 44 years.
A Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana semifinal clash will take on added significance as both teams are in the same 2026 World Cup qualifying group.
South Africa are second on three points, while Nigeria have two points after two rounds of matches.
Both teams will battle in the World Cup qualifiers in June when the Super Eagles welcome Bafana Bafana to Uyo.
Nwabali recovered from a knee injury he suffered against Cameron in the previous round, allowing to pull off at least two big saves to ensure the Super Eagles flew past Angola to the AFCON semifinal.
“I am here to make saves, that’s why I am the goalkeeper”, he said.
He dedicated Nigeria’s qualification to the AFCON semifinal to the fans.
